Gaming Machine With Use Of Symbol Which Rotates/Stops While Displayed, Playing Method Thereof, And Blackjack Gaming Machine

ABSTRACT

If a side bet operation is not performed, a base payout is awarded according to a blackjack combination of two card symbols  72 A and  72 B arranged on a first display  101 . On the other hand, if a side bet operation is performed, a reel  74  which is able to rotate and stop is displayed on a second display  102 . Then a special payout is awarded according to a combination of a card symbol  73  which is displayed as the reel  74  stops and the two card symbols  72 A and  72 B displayed on the first display  101.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority from Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/057,993, which was filed on Jun. 2, 2008, thedisclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a gaming machine with use of symbolswhich rotate/stop while displayed, a playing method thereof, and ablackjack game device.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

There are many types of card games, and they have been deeply popularalong with roulette games and slot games.

A playing method of blackjack is taught in, for example, thespecification of U.S. Pat. No. 5,154,429.

To card games such as blackjack it is desirable to add, without losingexisting gaming characteristics, a new entertainment characteristicenhancing the player's zest and preventing the player from losinghis/her interest in the game.

An object of the present invention is to provide a game device having anentertainment characteristic unexpected in known games, a playing methodof the game device, and a blackjack game device.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a game devicehaving a new entertainment characteristic enhancing the player's zestwithout losing existing gaming characteristics, a playing method of thegame device, and a blackjack game device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a game device comprising: a firstdisplay on which a first symbol is arranged; a second display on which asecond symbol is arranged; an input device which receives a special betoperation from outside; and a controller which is programmed to performthe steps of: (a1) allowing the input device to receive the special betoperation; (a2) arranging a first symbol on the first display; (a3)arranging a second symbol on the second display, if the input device hasreceived the special bet operation; (a4) awarding a base payoutaccording to the first symbol, if no second symbol is arranged; and (a5)awarding a special payout according to the first symbol and the secondsymbol, if the second symbol is arranged.

In this structure, when a special bet operation is not performed by aplayer and hence no second symbol is arranged, a base payout is awardedaccording to the first symbol. On the other hand, when a special betoperation is operated by a player and hence a second symbol is arranged,a special payout is awarded according to the first symbol and the secondsymbol.

As such, in response to the special bet operation by the player, asecond symbol involving a payout is arranged in addition to existinggaming characteristics. Because this provides variation to the way ofawarding a payout to a player, the player's zest is enhanced withoutlosing existing gaming characteristics.

The present invention relates to a game device comprising: a firstdisplay on which a first symbol is arranged; a second display on which asecond symbol, one type of which is a special symbol, is arranged; aninput device which receives a special bet operation from outside; and acontroller which is programmed to perform the steps of: (b1) allowingthe input device to receive the special bet operation; (b2) arranging afirst symbol on the first display; (b3) arranging a second symbol on thesecond display, if the input device has received the special betoperation; (b4) awarding a base payout according to the first symbol, ifno second symbol is arranged; (b5) if a second symbol which is differentfrom the special symbol is arranged, awarding a special payout accordingto the first symbol and the second symbol; and (b6) if a special symbolis arranged, awarding a bonus payout according to the first symbol andthe special symbol.

In this structure, when a special bet operation is not performed by aplayer and hence no second symbol is arranged, a base payout is awardedaccording to the first symbol. On the other hand, when a special betoperation is performed by a player and hence a second symbol isarranged, a special payout is awarded according to the first symbol andthe second symbol.

Furthermore, when a special symbol is arranged, a bonus payout isawarded according to the first symbol and the special symbol.

As such, in response to the special bet operation by the player, asecond symbol involving a payout is arranged in addition to existinggaming characteristics. Because this provides variation to the way ofawarding a payout to a player, the player's zest is enhanced withoutlosing existing gaming characteristics.

The present invention relates to a game device comprising: a firstdisplay on which a first symbol, one type of which is a first specialsymbol, is arranged; a second display on which a second symbol, one typeof which is a second special symbol, is arranged; an input device whichreceives a special bet operation from outside; and a controller which isprogrammed to perform the steps of: (c1) allowing the input device toreceive the special bet operation; (c2) arranging a first symbol on thefirst display; (c3) arranging a second symbol on the second display, ifthe input device has received the special bet operation; (c4) if nosecond symbol is arranged and a first symbol which is different from thefirst special symbol is arranged, awarding a base payout according tothe first symbol; (c5) if a first special symbol is arranged no matterwhether a second symbol is arranged, awarding a first bonus payoutaccording to the first special symbol; (c6) if a second symbol which isdifferent from the second special symbol is arranged, awarding a bonuspayout according to the first symbol and the second symbol; and (c7) ifa second special symbol is arranged, awarding a second bonus payoutaccording to the first symbol and the second special symbol.

In this structure, when a special bet operation is not performed by aplayer and hence no second symbol is arranged, a base payout is awardedaccording to the first symbol. On the other hand, when a special betoperation is performed by a player and hence a second symbol isarranged, a special payout is awarded according to the first symbol andthe second symbol.

In particular, when a first special symbol is arranged, a first bonuspayout is awarded according to the first special symbol. When a secondspecial symbol is arranged, a second bonus payout is awarded accordingto the first symbol and the second special symbol.

As such, in response to the special bet operation by the player, asecond symbol involving a payout is arranged in addition to existinggaming characteristics. Because this provides variation to the way ofawarding a payout to a player, the player's zest is enhanced withoutlosing existing gaming characteristics.

The present invention relates to a playing method of a game device inwhich a first symbol is arranged on a first display and a second symbolis arranged on a second display, the playing method comprising the stepsof: (d1) allowing an input device to receive a special bet operation;(d2) arranging a first symbol on the first display; (d3) if the inputdevice has received the special bet operation, arranging a second symbolon the second display; (d4) if no second symbol is arranged, awarding abase payout according to the first symbol; and (d5) if a second symbolis arranged, awarding a special payout according to the first symbol andthe second symbol.

In this structure, when a special bet operation is not performed by aplayer and hence no second symbol is arranged, a base payout is awardedaccording to the first symbol. On the other hand, if a special betoperation is performed by a player and hence a second symbol isarranged, a special payout is awarded according to the first symbol andthe second symbol.

As such, in response to the special bet operation by the player, asecond symbol involving a payout is arranged in addition to existinggaming characteristics. Because this provides variation to the way ofawarding a payout to a player, the player's zest is enhanced withoutlosing existing gaming characteristics.

The present invention relates to a blackjack game device comprising: afirst display on which two card symbols randomly selected from differenttypes of card symbols are displayed; a second display on which a cardsymbol randomly selected from different types of card symbols isdisplayed; an input device which receives a blackjack bet operation anda side bet operation from outside; and a controller which is programmedto perform the steps of: (e1) allowing the input device to accept theblackjack bet operation or the side bet operation; (e2) after the inputdevice receives the blackjack bet operation or the side bet operation,arranging card symbols on the first display; (e3) if the input devicehas received the side bet operation, arranging a card symbol on thesecond display; (e4) if the input device has received the blackjack betoperation, awarding a base payout according to a blackjack combinationof the two card symbols arranged on the first display; and (e5) if theinput device has received the side bet operation, awarding a specialpayout according to a combination of the two card symbols arranged onthe first display and the card symbol arranged on the second display.

In this structure, when a side bet operation is not performed by aplayer and hence no card symbol is arranged on the second display, abase payout is awarded according to a blackjack combination of two cardsymbols arranged on the first display. On the other hand, when a sidebet operation is performed by a player and hence a card symbol isarranged on the second display, a special payout is awarded according tothe two card symbols arranged on the first display and the card symbolarranged on the second display.

As such, in response to the special bet operation by the player, asecond symbol involving a payout is arranged in addition to existinggaming characteristics. Because this provides variation to the way ofawarding a payout to a player, the player's zest is enhanced withoutlosing existing gaming characteristics.

Furthermore, when a blackjack bet operation is performed by a player, ablackjack game is run using a blackjack combination of two card symbols.On the other hand, if a side bet operation is performed by a player, aslot machine game is performed using a combination of two card symbolsarranged on the first display and a card symbol arranged on the seconddisplay.

This makes it possible to switch between two games or concurrently playtwo games in a single game device, thereby enhancing the player's zest.

The present invention relates to the above-discussed blackjack gamedevice which is adapted so that the controller is programmed to performthe steps of: (e6) if the input device has received the side betoperation, randomly arranging a special symbol on the first display; and(e7) if the special symbol is arranged on the first display, executing aspecial game.

In this structure, a special symbol may be arranged on the first displaywhen a side bet operation is performed by a player.

A special game is run in response to the arrangement of the specialsymbol, and this further enhances the player's zest.

The structures above make it possible to provide a game device having anentertainment characteristic unexpected in known games, a playing methodof the game device, and a blackjack game device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other and further objects, features and advantages of the invention willappear more fully from the following description taken in connectionwith the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a playing method of ablackjack game device.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the blackjack game device.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a display screen.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of the display screen.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the external appearance of the blackjackgame device.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram schematically showing the electrical structureof the blackjack game device.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing the electrical structureof a station.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a gaming process.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a gaming process.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

An embodiment of a game device and a playing method thereof inaccordance with the present invention will be discussed.

It is hereinafter assumed that the game device is a blackjack gamedevice used for playing a blackjack game.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, a blackjack game device 1 executes a playingmethod comprising the steps of: allowing an input device 103 to receivea blackjack bet operation or a side bet operation; after the inputdevice 103 receives the blackjack bet operation or the side betoperation, arranging card symbols 72A and 72B on a first display 101; ifthe input device 103 has received the side bet operation, arranging acard symbol 73 on a second display 102; if the input device 103 hasreceived the side bet operation, randomly arranging a first specialsymbol 76 on the first display 101; if the input device 103 has receivedthe blackjack bet operation, awarding a base payout according to ablackjack combination of the two card symbols 72A and 72B arranged onthe first display 101; if the input device 103 has received the side betoperation, awarding a special payout according to a combination of thetwo card symbols 72A and 72B arranged on the first display 101 and thecard symbol 73 arranged on the second display 102; running a specialgame when the first special symbol 76 is arranged on the first display101; and if an unillustrated second special symbol is arranged on thesecond display 102, awarding a bonus payout according to the secondspecial symbol.

It is noted that the “blackjack combination” indicates a number from 2to 21 in a blackjack game.

Meanwhile, the “combination of the two card symbols 72A and 72B arrangedon the first display 101 and the card symbol 73 arranged on the seconddisplay 102” indicates a combination in which either particular cardsymbols are contained or card symbols have the same number or suit, asin the case of slot machines.

Therefore hereinafter the “combination of the two card symbols 72A and72B arranged on the first display 101 and the card symbol 73 arranged onthe second display 102” may be referred to as slot machine combination.

In addition, the “first special symbol” indicates a JP symbol 76displayed along with card symbols (first symbols) 72A and 72B. When cardsymbols 72A and 72B are arranged on the first display 101 along with thedisplay of a JP symbol 76, a special game is run.

The “special game” indicates a second game different from the blackjackgame. Examples of the second game include video poker and video slot.

The “second special symbol” indicates an unillustrated JP card symbolwhich is displayed as a card symbol (second symbol) 73. When the JP cardsymbol is arranged on the second display 102, a bonus payout is awardedto the player.

The “bonus payout” indicates credits accumulated according to the JACKPOT (JP) method.

Details will be given later.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, a blackjack game device 1 which executes theaforesaid playing method includes a first display 101, a second display102, an input device 103, and a controller 100.

(First Display 101)

The first display 101 is electrically structured to display two cardsymbols (first symbols) 72A and 72B.

It is noted that at least one of the displayed two card symbols 72A and72B may be accompanied with the display of a JP symbol 76.

The first display 101 may be physically constituted by a table on whichtwo cards are physically placed.

Alternatively the first display 101 may be electrically constituted by aliquid crystal display device, a CRT (cathode-ray tube) device, a plasmadisplay device, or the like.

The structure of the first display 101 will be specifically describedlater.

(Second Display 102)

The second display 102 is electrically structured to arrange one cardsymbol (second symbol) 73 by rotating and stopping a displayed videoreel 74.

The reel 74 is structured so that card symbols overlap one another toform a band.

The second display 102 may be constituted by a physical reel or thelike.

Alternatively the second display 102 may be electrically constituted bya liquid crystal display device, a CRT (cathode-ray tube) device, aplasma display device, or the like.

The structure of the second display 102 will be specifically describedlater.

(Input Device 103)

The input device 103 is structured to receive a blackjack bet operationor a side bet operation (special bet operation).

When the input device 103 receives the blackjack bet operation, two cardsymbols 72A and 72B are arranged on the first display 101.

In the meanwhile, when the input device 103 receives the side betoperation, two card symbols 72A and 72B are arranged on the firstdisplay 101 and one displayed video reel 74 rotates and stops on thesecond display 102. As the reel 74 stops, one card symbol 73 is arrangedon the second display 102.

When the input device 103 receives the side bet operation, there is acase where at least one of displayed two card symbols 72A and 72Barranged on the first display 101 may be accompanied with the display ofa JP symbol 76.

As discussed later, the input device 103 may be constituted by a touchpanel 56 or buttons.

(Controller 100)

The controller 100 is arranged to execute: a first process of allowingthe input device 103 to receive a blackjack bet operation or a side betoperation (special bet operation); a second process of arranging cardsymbols (first symbols) 72A and 72B on the first display 101, after theinput device 103 receives the blackjack bet operation or the side betoperation; a third process of arranging a card symbol (second symbol) 73on the second display 102, when the input device 103 has received sidebet operation; a fourth process of randomly arranging a JP symbol (firstspecial symbol) 76 on the first display 101, when the input device 103has received the side bet operation; a fifth process of awarding a basepayout according to a blackjack combination of two card symbols 72A and72B arranged on the first display 101, when the input device 103 hasreceived the blackjack bet operation; a sixth process of awarding aspecial payout according to a combination of two card symbols 72A and72B arranged on the first display 101 and a card symbol 73 arranged onthe second display 102, when the input device 103 has received the sidebet operation; a seventh process of running a second game (special game)in a case where a JP symbol 76 is arranged on the first display 101; andan eighth process of, when a JP card symbol (second special symbol) isarranged on the second display 102, awarding a bonus payout according tothe JP card symbol.

In other words, the controller 100 includes a first processing unit, asecond processing unit, a third processing unit, a fourth processingunit, a fifth processing unit, a sixth processing unit, a seventhprocessing unit, and an eighth processing unit.

The controller 100 includes an operation determination unit 107 whichallows the input device 103 to receive a blackjack bet operation or aside bet operation and determines which bet operation has been receivedby the input device 103.

In other words, the controller 100 executes the first process ofallowing the input device 103 to receive a blackjack bet operation or aside bet operation.

The controller 100 further includes: a game running unit 110 which runsa blackjack game after the determination regarding the bet operation bythe operation determination unit 107; a first symbol determining unit106 which determines two card symbols 72A and 72B arranged on the firstdisplay 101; and a second symbol determining unit 105 which determinesone card symbol 73 arranged on the second display 102.

The first symbol determining unit 106 determines two card symbols 72Aand 72B arranged on the first display 101, when a bet operation receivedby the input device 103 is the blackjack bet operation. On the otherhand, when a bet operation received by the input device 103 is the sidebet operation, the first symbol determining unit 106 determines two cardsymbols 72A and 72B arranged on the first display 101 and randomlydetermines a JP symbol 76 which is displayed along with the two cardsymbols 72A and 72B.

The second symbol determining unit 105 determines a card symbol 73arranged on the second display 102, when a bet operation received by theinput device 103 is the side bet operation.

In addition to the above the controller 100 includes a display controlunit 104 which controls image display on the first display 101 and thesecond display 102.

The display control unit 104 displays on the first display 101 the twocard symbols 72A and 72B determined by the first symbol determining unit106, and also displays on the second display 102 the one card symbol 73determined by the second symbol determining unit 105, by rotating andstopping the reel.

That is to say, after the input device 103 receives the blackjack betoperation or the side bet operation, the controller 100 executes thesecond process of arranging card symbols 72A and 72B on the firstdisplay 101, the third process of arranging a card symbol 73 on thesecond display 102 when the input device 103 has received the side betoperation, and the fourth process of randomly arranging a JP symbol 76on the first display 101 when the input device 103 has received the sidebet operation.

In addition to the above the controller 100 includes a payoutdetermining unit 109 which determines a payout to be awarded to a playerand a payout awarding unit 111 which awards the payout to the player.

The payout determining unit 109 determines a blackjack combination oftwo card symbols 72A and 72B arranged on the first display 101, when thebet operation received by the input device 103 is the blackjack betoperation.

In this case the payout awarding unit 111 awards to the player a basepayout according to the blackjack combination.

In the meanwhile, when the bet operation received by the input device103 is the side bet operation, the payout determining unit 109determines a slot machine combination of two card symbols 72A and 72Barranged on the first display 101 and a card symbol 73 arranged on thesecond display 102.

In this case the payout awarding unit 111 awards to the player a specialpayout according to the slot machine combination.

In addition to the above the payout determining unit 109 determines abonus payout when a bet operation received by the input device 103 isthe side bet operation and a card symbol 73 arranged on the seconddisplay 102 is a JP card symbol.

In this case the payout awarding unit 111 awards the bonus payout to theplayer.

When the payout determining unit 109 determines that a bet operationreceived by the input device 102 is the side bet operation and two cardsymbols 72A and 72B arranged on the first display 101 is accompaniedwith the display of a JP symbol 76, the game running unit 110 runs asecond game using the first display 101 and the second display 102.

In this case the payout determining unit 109 determines a payoutaccording to the score that the player has obtained in the second game,and the payout awarding unit 111 awards to the player the payoutaccording to the score in the second game.

Specifically, the controller 100 executes: the fifth process of awardinga base payout according to a blackjack combination of two card symbols72A and 72B arranged on the first display 101, when the input device 103has received the blackjack bet operation; the sixth process of awardinga special payout according to a slot machine combination of two cardsymbols 72A and 72B arranged on the first display 101 and a card symbol73 arranged on the second display 102, when the input device 103 hasreceived the side bet operation; the seventh process of running aspecial game when a JP symbol 76 is arranged on the first display 101;and the eighth process of awarding, when a JP card symbol is arranged onthe second display 102, a bonus payout according to the JP card symbol.

It is noted that each block of the controller 100 may be implemented byhardware, or may be implemented by software according to need.

(Operation of Controller 100)

The operation of the controller 100 with the above-described structureis discussed.

First, the input device 103 receives a bet operation.

In response to this the controller 100 executes the first process ofallowing the input device 103 to receive the blackjack bet operation orthe side bet operation.

Thereafter the game running unit 110 runs a blackjack game.

When the input device 103 has received the blackjack bet operation, twocard symbols 72A and 72B determined by the first symbol determining unit106 are arranged on the first display 101 by the display control unit104.

Then the payout determining unit 109 determines a blackjack combinationof the two card symbols 72A and 72B and the payout awarding unit 111awards a base payout according to the blackjack combination to theplayer.

Therefore the controller 100 executes, after the input device 103receives the blackjack bet operation, the second process of arrangingtwo card symbols 72A and 72B on the first display 101 and the fifthprocess of awarding a base payout according to a blackjack combinationof the two card symbols 72A and 72B arranged on the first display 101.

In the meanwhile, when the input device 103 has received the side betoperation, two card symbols 72A and 72B determined by the first symboldetermining unit 106 are arranged on the first display 101 by thedisplay control unit 104 and one card symbol 73 determined by the secondsymbol determining unit 105 is, by rotating and stopping the displayedreel 74, arranged on the second display 102 by the display control unit104.

Then the payout determining unit 109 determines a slot machinecombination of the two card symbols 72A and 72B arranged on the firstdisplay 101 and the card symbol 73 arranged on the second display 102,and the payout awarding unit 111 awards to the player a special payoutaccording to the slot machine combination.

When the input device 103 has received the side bet operation, two cardsymbols 72A and 72B arranged on the first display 101 may be accompaniedwith the display of a JP symbol 76.

In this case the game running unit 110 runs a second game, and thepayout determining unit 109 determines a payout according to the scorethat the player has obtained in the second game. The payout awardingunit 111 then awards the payout according to the score that the playerhas obtained in the second game.

When the input device 103 has received the side bet operation, on thesecond display 102 a JP card symbol may be arranged.

In this case the payout determining unit 109 determines a bonus payoutand the payout awarding unit 111 awards the bonus payout to the player.

Therefore the controller 100 executes, after the input device 103receives the side bet operation, the second process of arranging cardsymbols 72A and 72B on the first display 101, the third process ofarranging a card symbol 73 on the second display 102, the fourth processof randomly arranging a JP symbol 76 on the first display 101, the sixthprocess of awarding a special payout according to a slot machinecombination of the two card symbols 72A and 72B arranged on the firstdisplay 101 and the card symbol 73 arranged on the second display 102,the seventh process of running a second game when a JP symbol 76 isarranged on the first display 101, and the eighth process of awarding,when a JP card symbol is arranged on the second display 102, a bonuspayout according to the JP card symbol.

As the above-discussed operation clearly shows, the blackjack gamedevice 1 realizes a playing method illustrated in FIG. 1 of comprisingthe steps of: allowing the input device 103 to receive the blackjack betoperation or the side bet operation (i.e. receive a special betoperation); after the input device 103 receives the blackjack betoperation or the side bet operation, arranging card symbols (firstsymbols) 72A and 72B on the first display 101; when the input device 103has received the side bet operation, arranging a card symbol (secondsymbol) 73 on the second display 102; when the input device 103 hasreceived the side bet operation, randomly arranging a JP symbol (firstspecial symbol) 76 on the first display 101; when the input device 103has received the blackjack bet operation, awarding a base payoutaccording to a blackjack combination of the two card symbols 72A and 72Barranged on the first display 101; when the input device 103 hasreceived the side bet operation, awarding a special payout according toa combination (slot machine combination) of the two card symbols 72A and72B arranged on the first display 101 and the card symbol 73 arranged onthe second display 102; running a second game (special game) when the JPsymbol 76 is arranged on the first display 101; and awarding, when a JPcard symbol (second special symbol) is arranged on the second display102, a bonus payout according to the JP card symbol.

According to the aforesaid playing method, when the player does notperform the side bet operation and hence no card symbol 73 is arrangedon the second display 102, awarded is a base payout according to ablackjack combination of two card symbols 72A and 72B arranged on thefirst display 101. On the other hand, when the player performs the sidebet operation and hence a card symbol 73 is arranged on the seconddisplay 102, awarded is a special payout according to a combination ofthe two card symbols 72A and 72B arranged on the first display 101 andthe card symbol 73 arranged on the second display.

As such, in response to the side bet operation by the player, a cardsymbol 73 involving a payout is arranged on the second display 102, inaddition to existing gaming characteristics. Because this providesvariation to the way of awarding a payout to a player, the player's zestis enhanced without losing existing gaming characteristics.

When the player performs the blackjack bet operation, a blackjack gameis run using a blackjack combination of two card symbols 72A and 72B. Inthe meanwhile, when the player performs the side bet operation, a slotmachine game is run using a combination of two card symbols 72A and 72Barranged on the first display 101 and a card symbol 73 arranged on thesecond display 102.

This makes it possible to switch between two games or concurrently playtwo games in a single game device, thereby enhancing the player's zest.

In addition to the above, when the player performs the side betoperation, a JP symbol 76 may be arranged on the first display 101.

The arrangement of the JP symbol 76 triggers the running of a secondgame, and this further enhances the player's zest.

Furthermore, since a bonus payout is awarded when a JP card symbol isarranged on the second display 102, the player's zest is furtherenhanced.

(Display States)

The following gives a specific example of the display states of thefirst display 101 and the second display 102, in the above-discussedblackjack game device 1 and the operation process of a playing method ofthe device 1.

The explanation of the display states assumes that, as illustrated inFIG. 4, the first display 101 and the second display 102 are structuredto form a single display 8, and electrically display two card symbols(first symbols) 72A and 72B and one card symbol (second symbol) 73.

When a blackjack game starts in the blackjack game device 1, the display8 displays a bet screen 61 as illustrated in FIG. 3.

This bet screen 61 is provided with 20 bet areas 51 numbered from “2” to“21”, and the like.

On the front surface side of the display 8, a light-transmitting touchpanel 56 which accepts an external pressing operation is provided as theinput device 103.

Therefore what is meant by the description “various parts such as thebet areas 51 on the bet screen 61 are operated by a player” is thatvarious parts of the touch panel 56, which correspond to the bet areas51 and the like, are pressed by a player.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, 20 bet areas 51 numbered from 2 to 21 arearranged at around the center of the bet screen 61.

Displayed in the upper part of the bet screen 61 are, from left toright, a result history display portion 53, a credit value indicator 54,a betting period display portion 55, and a help button 49.

The result history display portion 53 displays a result of a previousgame.

The credit value indicator 54 displays the number of credits that aplayer currently has.

The betting period display portion 55 displays a remaining bettingperiod.

The help button 49 is operated by a player when he/she wants to clarifyan operational ambiguity.

Displayed in the lower part of the bet screen 61 are, from left toright, a bet confirmation button 47, a one-bet button 52A, a 5-betbutton 52B, a 10-bet button 52C, a 50-bet button 52D, a side bet button50, and a payout button 48.

The bet confirmation button 47 is operated to confirm the bet in acurrently-played game.

The one-bet button 52A is operated to bet “1” credit.

The 5-bet button 52B is operated to bet “5” credits.

The 10-bet button 52C is operated to bet “10” credits.

The 50-bet button 52D is operated to bet “50” credits.

The side bet button 50 is operated to perform the side bet operation.

The payout button 48 is operated to pay out, as physical game media, allof the player's current credits through a below-mentioned medal payoutopening 9.

In the bet screen 61 thus configured, one of the bet areas 51 isoperated before a remaining betting period displayed by the bettingperiod display portion 55 reaches “0”, so that the number to whichbetting is placed is determined.

Thereafter the bet buttons 52A to 52D are operated so that acredit-value to be bet is determined.

Each time the one-bet button 52A is operated, the credit to be betincreases by 1.

Similarly, the credits to be bet increase by 5 each time the 5-betbutton 52B is operated, the credits to be bet increase by 10 each timethe 10-bet button 52C is operated, and the credits to be bet increasesby 50 each time the 50-bet button 52D is operated.

This simplifies the operation to bet a lot of credits.

Thereafter the side bet button 50 becomes operable.

The operation of the side bet button 50 starts the side bet operation,and “10” credits are side-bet, for example.

On the other hand, the blackjack bet operation starts if the side betbutton 50 is not operated.

Finally the bet placed in the currently-played game is confirmed whenthe bet confirmation button 47 is operated.

It is noted that 0.5% of a credit of each bet is accumulated inaccordance with the JACK POT (JP) method.

According to the JP method, a credit-value is accumulatively addedacross all of the below-described 10 stations 4.

When a JP card symbol is displayed as the reel 74 stops, the totalcredit-value having been accumulated up to this point according to theJP method is awarded to the player of the station 4 which is displayingthe JP card symbol.

When the bet is confirmed in the bet screen 61, a result screen 71 shownin FIG. 4 is displayed on the display 8.

If a bet operation received by the bet screen 61 is the blackjack betoperation, the result screen 71 only displays two card symbols 72A and72B, and the reel 74 is not displayed thereon.

Therefore the player is awarded a base payout according to a blackjackcombination of these two card symbols 72A and 72B.

For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, if the blackjack combination is“17”, a base payout is awarded when a bet has been placed on “17”.

In the meanwhile, if a bet operation received by the bet screen 61 isthe side bet operation, the result screen 71 displays a rotating reel 74and two card symbols 72A and 72B.

As this rotating reel 74 stops, one card symbol 73 is displayed.

In this case the player is awarded a special payout according to a slotmachine combination of the two card symbols 72A and 72B and the cardsymbol 73 displayed on the stopped reel 74.

For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, if three card symbols form anywinning combination (combination with which a payout is awarded), aspecial payout according to the combination is paid out.

When a bet operation received by the bet screen 61 is the side betoperation, the result screen 71 may display a JP symbol 76 along withtwo card symbols 72A and 72B.

A second game is run in this case.

When a bet operation received by the bet screen 61 is the side betoperation, the result screen 71 may display a JP card symbol as a secondsymbol 73.

In this case all of the credit-value accumulated in accordance with theJP method is awarded as a bonus payout to the player.

(Mechanical Structure of Blackjack Game Device 1)

The mechanical structure of the blackjack game device 1 is discussed.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, the blackjack game device 1 is structured toinclude: two tables 2 each having 5 stations 4; and a server 13 disposedbetween the two tables 2.

The server 13 is connected to each station 4. The server 13 sends acommand signal to each station 4 so as to actively control the station 4and proceeds games.

Therefore the server 13 is protected by a protection door to prevent auser from operating the server 13.

The server 13 is connected with a liquid crystal display and a keyboard.Displayed on the liquid crystal display are a menu screen and amaintenance screen.

The keyboard has keys. A maintenance technician operates the keyboardwhile a menu screen and/or a maintenance screen is displayed on theliquid crystal display, in order to perform maintenance and varioussettings of the blackjack game device 1.

The station 4 includes: a medal insertion slot 6 through which a gamemedium such as a coin and a medal is inserted; a display 8 (firstdisplay 101 and second display 102) which displays images concerninggames; a touch panel 56 (input device 103) disposed on the front surfaceside of the display 8; a medal payout opening 9 through which a gamemedium is paid out; and a not-shown speaker. The station 4 is structuredto accept a bet operation from a player.

Provided inside the medal insertion slot 6 is an unillustrated medalsensor. This medal sensor identifies a game medium such as a medalinserted through the medal insertion slot 6, and counts an inserted gamemedium.

Provided in the medal payout opening 9 is an unillustrated hopper. Thishopper pays out a game medium such as a medal to the medal payoutopening 9.

(Electrical Structure of Blackjack Game Device 1)

Now the electrical structure of the blackjack game device 1 isdiscussed.

(Electrical Structure of Server 13)

As illustrated in FIG. 6, the blackjack game device 1 is structured toinclude the server 13 and the stations 4 (10 stations 4 in thisembodiment) connected to the server 13.

The control system of the station 4 will be detailed later.

The server 13 is structured to include: a server control CPU 81 as acomputing unit and a control device responsible for the overall controlof the server 13; a ROM 82; a RAM 83, a timer 84 connected to the servercontrol CPU 81; a liquid crystal display 32 connected through a liquidcrystal driver 85; and a keyboard 33.

The server control CPU 81 executes various processes based on signalssupplied from each station 4 and data and programs stored in the ROM 82and the RAM 83, and based on a result thereof, the server control CPU 81transmits various control signals to each station 4. By doing so theserver control CPU 81 actively controls each station 4 and proceeds agame.

Based on a card symbol randomly determined by the server control CPU 81and betting information transmitted from each station 4, winningdetermination is made and a payout of each station 4 is calculated.

The ROM 82 is, for example, constituted by a semiconductor memory or thelike and stores programs such as those for realizing basic functions ofthe blackjack game device 1 and those for actively controlling eachstation 4.

On the other hand, the RAM 83 temporarily stores data such as creditbetting information supplied from each station 4, a card symbol randomlydetermined by the server control CPU 81, a credit-value of the JP methodwhich has been accumulated up to this point, and data concerning aresult of a process executed by the server control CPU 81.

The server control CPU 81 is further connected to the timer 84 whichmeasures time.

The time information of the timer 84 is transmitted to the servercontrol CPU 81. Based on this time information, the server control CPU81 manages a betting period.

(Electrical Structure of Stations 4)

Now, the following discusses the structure related the control system ofthe stations 4 connected to the server 13 of the present embodiment,with reference to FIG. 7.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the control systemof the stations 4 of the present embodiment.

It is noted that 10 stations 4 basically share the same structure andhence the following discusses a single station 4.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, the station 4 is structured to include astation control unit 90 and several peripheral devices.

The station control unit 90 includes a station control CPU 91, a ROM 92,and a RAM 93.

The ROM 92 is constituted by a semiconductor memory, for example, andstores programs used for realizing basic functions of the station 4,various programs required for the control of the station 4, a datatable, and so on.

The RAM 93 temporarily stores various types of data calculated by thestation control CPU 91, a credit-value that a player currently has,betting information about how much credit is placed by a player as abet, and so on.

The station control CPU 91 receives various command signals from theserver control CPU 81. Based on these command signals, the stationcontrol CPU 91 controls the peripheral devices constituting the station4, so as to proceed a unit game in the station 4.

In other words, the server control CPU 81 and the station control CPU 91function as the aforesaid controller 100.

In addition to the above, in response to various operation signals inputthrough, for example, the pressing of the touch panel 56, the stationcontrol CPU 91 performs control so as to execute the operationsassociated with the thus input signals.

Specifically, in response to the input of an operation from a player,various processes are executed based on the data and programs stored inthe ROM 92 and RAM 93. In accordance with results of the processes theperipheral devices constituting the station 4 are controlled so that aunit game is proceeded in the station 4. The result of the unit game istransmitted to the above-mentioned server control CPU 81.

In addition to the above, the station control CPU 91 is connected to ahopper 94.

The hopper 94 pays out a game medium such as a medal to the medal payoutopening 9 (see FIG. 5), in response to a command signal supplied fromthe station control CPU 91.

In addition the above, the station control CPU 91 is connected to adisplay 8 via a liquid crystal driver 95.

The liquid crystal driver 95 is constituted by members such as a programROM, an image ROM, an image control CPU, a work RAM, a VDP (VideoDisplay Processor), and a video RAM.

The program ROM stores an image control program related to image displayon the display 8 and various selection tables.

The image ROM stores, for example, dot data used for forming an image tobe displayed on the display 8.

Based on a parameter set by the station control CPU 91, the imagecontrol CPU selects an image to be displayed on the display 8 from dotdata which has been stored in the image ROM in advance, in accordancewith an image control program which has been stored in the program ROMin advance.

The work RAM is structured as temporal storage means used when the imagecontrol program is executed by the image control CPU.

The VDP forms an image corresponding to the display content determinedby the image control CPU, and outputs the image to the display 8.

The video RAM is structured as temporary storage means used for formingan image by the VDP.

On the front surface side of the display 8, the touch panel 56 isattached as described above.

Operation information to the touch panel 56 is transmitted to thestation control CPU 91.

A player presses the touch panel 56 so as to bet a credit on the betscreen 61.

The information of the bet operation is then transmitted to the stationcontrol CPU 91.

The betting information of the player is stored in the RAM 93 from timeto time.

The betting information is then transmitted to the server control CPU 81and stored in a betting information storage area of the RAM 83.

In addition to the above, the station control CPU 91 is connected to amedal sensor 97.

This medal sensor 97 detects a game medium such as a medal inserted intothe medal insertion slot 6(see FIG. 5), and transmits a result of thedetection to the station control CPU 91.

Based on the supplied signal, the station control CPU 91 increments thecredit-value of the player, which is stored in the RAM 93.

Furthermore, the station control CPU 91 is connected to a speaker 10 viaa sound output circuit 96.

The speaker 10 produces various types of sound effects for correspondingvisual effects, based on an output signal from the sound output circuit96.

(Processing Operation of Blackjack Game Device 1)

Now, the processing operation of the blackjack game device 1 isdiscussed.

The station control CPU 91 of each station 4 and the server control CPU81 of the server 13 cooperatively execute a gaming process, so that agame is proceeded.

In other words, the server control CPU 81 and the station control CPU 91function as the above-described controller 100.

(Station-Side Gaming Process)

The station control CPU 91 of each station 4 executes a station-sidegaming process routine which is illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9.

First, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the station control CPU 91 receivesfrom the server 13 a betting period start signal which notifies that abetting period has started (S1).

Subsequently, the display 8 of the station 4 displays a bet screen 61illustrated in FIG. 3 (S2), so that the station 4 starts to receive abet operation from a player (S3).

During a betting period in which a bet operation is accepted, the playerhaving participated in a game operates the touch panel 56 so as to bethis/her credit to a bet area 51 corresponding to the number that he/sheanticipates (see FIG. 3).

At this point the player is allowed to perform the side bet operation byoperating the side bet button 50.

Then whether a side-bet has been performed is determined (S4). If it isdetermined that a side-bet has been performed (S4: YES), a second symbol73 is determined (S5).

A betting period finish signal which notifies that the betting periodhas finished is received from the server 13 (S6) and the acceptance of abet operation by the touch panel 56 is finished (S7), either when in thestep S4 it is determined that a side-bet has not been performed (S4: NO)or after the step S5.

Thereafter the betting information which indicates the bet made by theplayer in the station 4 is transmitted to the server 13 (S8).

Subsequently, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the station control CPU 91displays on the display 8 a result screen 71 (see FIG. 4) (S9).

Then a payout result concerning the first symbols 72A and 72B andvarious types of payouts is supplied from the server 13 (S10).

Thereafter there is determined whether a side-bet has been performed(S11). If it is determined that a side-bet has been performed (S11:YES), a rotating reel 74 is displayed on the display 8 (S12), and thenthe rotation of the reel 74 is stopped (S13).

Consequently a second symbol 73 is displayed as the rotation is stopped.

Either when in the step S11 it is determined that a side-bet is notperformed (S11: NO) or after the step S13, first symbols 72A and 72B aredisplayed on the display 8 (S14).

Thereafter a credit is paid out in accordance with the payout result(S15).

Specifically, if a side bet operation has not been performed, a basepayout is awarded according to a blackjack combination of first symbols72A and 72B. On the other hand, if a side bet operation has beenperformed, a special payout is awarded according to a slot machinecombination of first symbols 72A and 72B and a second symbol 73.

In the meanwhile, if a side bet operation has been performed and a JPcard symbol is being displayed as a second symbol 73, all of thecredit-value of the JP method accumulated up to this point is awarded asa bonus payout

Thereafter there is determined whether the first symbols 72A and 72B areaccompanied with the display of a JP symbol 76(see FIG. 4) (S16). If itis determined that the JP symbol 76 is not displayed (S16: NO), thestation-side gaming process routine finishes.

On the other hand, if it is determined that a JP symbol 76 is beingdisplayed (S16: YES), a second game is run (S17), and a payout accordingto the score that the player has obtained in the second game is paid outas a credit (S18). Thereafter the station-side gaming process routinefinishes.

(Server-Side Gaming Process)

The server control CPU 81 of the server 13 executes a server-side gamingprocess routine illustrated in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9.

First, as illustrated in FIG. 8, a betting period start signal istransmitted to each station 4 (S101), and the counting of a bettingperiod during which a bet operation from a player is accepted starts(S102).

Thereafter there is determined whether the betting period is finished(S103). If it is determined that the betting period has not beenfinished (S103: NO), the step S103 is repeated until the betting periodis finished.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the betting period has beenfinished (S103: YES), a betting period finish signal is transmitted toeach station 4 (S104), and betting information received from eachstation 4 is stored in the RAM 83 (S105).

Thereafter, a credit equivalent to 0.5% of the total credit, which hasbeen bet in each station 4, is accumulatively added to the credit-valueof the JP method, which is stored in the RAM 83 (S106).

Then the first symbols 72A and 72B are determined (S107)

Subsequently, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the server control CPU 81determines a winning in each station 4, with reference to the bettinginformation supplied from each station 4, the thus determined firstsymbols 72A and 72B, and the second symbol 73 optionally determined ineach station 4 (S108).

Then a payout calculation process is executed (S109).

The payout calculation process proceeds as follows: with regard to eachstation, there is determined whether a bet operation is the blackjackbet operation or the side bet operation. Also, whether there is a basepayout, whether there is a special payout, whether there is a bonuspayout by a JP card symbol, and whether a second game is run on accountof the display of a JP symbol 76 are recognized for each station 4.

If at least one of the aforesaid winning cases has occurred, the totalpayout is calculated for the station 4 where the winning case hasoccurred.

Thereafter the result of payout of credits calculated in the payoutcalculation process is transmitted to each station 4 (S110).

Then the credit-value of the JP method is reduced according to need(S111).

In other words, the credit-value of the JP method is reset when a bonuspayout on account of a JP card symbol occurs.

Then the server-side gaming process routine is finished.

As discussed above, when the side bet operation has not been performedby a player and no second symbol 73 is arranged on the display 8, apayout is awarded according to a blackjack combination of two cardsymbols 72A and 72B arranged on the display 8. On the other hand, whenthe side bet operation has been performed by a player and hence a secondsymbol 73 is arranged on the display 8, a special payout is awardedaccording to a combination of first symbols 72A and 72B and the secondsymbol 73 arranged on the display 8.

As such, in response to the side bet operation by the player, a secondsymbol 73 is arranged on the display 8, in addition to existing gamingcharacteristics. Because this provides variation to the way of awardinga payout to a player, the player's zest is enhanced without losingexisting gaming characteristics.

When the player performs the blackjack bet operation, a blackjack gameis run using a blackjack combination of two card symbols 72A and 72B. Inthe meanwhile, when the player performs the side bet operation, a slotmachine game is run using a combination of two card symbols 72A and 72Band a card symbol 73 arranged in the display 8.

This makes it possible to switch between two games or concurrently playtwo games in a single game device, thereby enhancing the player's zest.

In addition to the above, when the player performs the side betoperation, a JP symbol (special symbol) 76 may be arranged on thedisplay 8, along with first symbols 72A and 72B.

The arrangement of the JP symbol 76 triggers the running of a secondgame, and this further enhances the player's zest.

Furthermore, since a bonus payout is awarded when a JP card symbol isarranged on the display 8, the player's zest is further enhanced.

The embodiment above is structured so that three card symbols 72A, 72B,and 73 are arranged on a single display 8. Alternatively, a firstdisplay 101 where two card symbols 72A and 72B are arranged and a seconddisplay 102 where a single card symbol 73 is arranged by the rotation ofa reel may be independently provided.

The present embodiment is also structured so that a JP symbol 76 isdisplayed in addition to two card symbols 72A and 72B, when the side betoperation is performed. Alternatively, a JP symbol 76 may be displayedalso when the blackjack bet operation is performed.

The present embodiment is also structured so that a second game is runin response to the display of a JP symbol 76, and a bonus payout isawarded in response to the display of a JP card symbol. Alternatively,the present invention may be adapted so that a bonus payout (first bonuspayout) is awarded in response to the display of a JP symbol 76 andanother bonus payout (second bonus payout) is awarded in response to thedisplay of a JP card symbol.

(Blackjack Game Device Having Shared Display)

The blackjack game device 1 of the above-described embodiment isstructured so that each station 4 is provided with a display 8. Theblackjack game device 1 may be alternatively structured so as to have ashared display 201 (Second Embodiment).

The blackjack game device 1 of the alternative arrangement includes 10stations 4, a shared display, and a route board, and these members areconnected to one another via a network.

On the route board, 10 route signages having LEDs connecting eachstation 4 with the shared display are arranged to correspond to therespective stations 4.

Each of the 10 route signages is constituted by a straight portion froma goal line adjacent to the shared display to a flashing line (on andoff light line) and a curved portion from the flashing line to eachstation 4.

The blackjack game device 1 of Second Embodiment is arranged so that0.5% of a credit of a bet placed in each station 4 is accumulated inaccordance with the JACK POT (JP) method.

The shared display 201 displays an image showing an accumulatedcredit-value of the JP method.

For instance, when an accumulated credit-value of the JP method is “$12,34”, the shared display displays an image showing the credit-value “$12,34”.

When the accumulated credit-value of the JP method reaches apredetermined value, the display 8 displays card symbols 72A and 72B.Triggered by this, each station 4 executes a jackpot game as a secondgame giving a chance to obtain all of the credit-value of the JP methodhaving been accumulated up to this point.

At the start of the jackpot game, a position where the station 4 isconnected to the route signage corresponds to 0 point, whereas aposition at the goal line corresponds to 50 points.

For instance, at the start of a jackpot game, a video slot is run ineach station 4, so that points corresponding to the number of displayedjackpot point symbols are awarded. When the total of the accumulated andawarded points reaches a predetermined value (50 points), the totalcredit-value (for example $12, 34) of the JP method displayed on theshared display is awarded to the player playing at the station 4 wherethe points reach a predetermined value (50 points).

It should be noted that in each route signage the accumulated points ofeach station 4 are represented by the number of LEDs in the lightemitting state.

The blackjack game device 1 of Second Embodiment has been discussed.

The blackjack game device 1 of Second Embodiment is arranged so that thestart of a jackpot game is triggered when an accumulated credit-value ofthe JP method exceeds a predetermined value (e.g. fixed value of $12,34). The present invention however is not limited to this arrangement.

For example the blackjack game device 1 may randomly change for eachjackpot game the game triggering threshold within a predetermined range(e.g. 200 dollars to 300 dollars)

In Second Embodiment, the points with which all of the credit-value ofthe JP method displayed on the shared display is awarded to a station 4are fixed at a predetermined value (50 points). Alternatively, thepoints may be randomly set.

For example, the slot machine 1 (gaming machine) may be adapted so thatall of the accumulated credit-value of the JP method is awarded when theaccumulated points reach a value which randomly changes in each jackpotgame within a predetermined range (e.g. 50 to 150 points).

In Second Embodiment, the points with which all of the credit-value ofthe JP method displayed on the shared display is awarded to a station 4are fixed at a predetermined value (50 points). Alternatively, thepoints may be arranged to be selectable.

For example, the points required to obtain an accumulated value ofjackpot credit information may be selectable from several options (e.g.50 points. 100 points, and 150 points) by an external input.

The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinabovemainly focused on characteristics thereof for the purpose of easierunderstanding; however, the scope of the present invention shall beconstrued as broadly as possible, encompassing various forms of otherpossible embodiments, and therefore the present invention shall not belimited to the above description.

Further, the terms and phraseology used in the present specification areadopted solely to provide specific illustration of the presentinvention, and in no case should the scope of the present invention belimited by such terms and phraseology.

Further, it will be obvious for those skilled in the art that the otherstructures, systems, methods or the like are possible, within the spiritof the invention described in the present specification.

The description of claims therefore shall encompass structuresequivalent to the present invention, unless otherwise such structuresare regarded as to depart from the spirit and scope of the presentinvention.

Further, the abstract is provided to allow, through a simpleinvestigation, quick analysis of the technical features and essences ofthe present invention by an intellectual property office, a generalpublic institution, or one skilled in the art who is not fullyfamiliarized with patent and legal or professional terminology.

It is therefore not an intention of the abstract to limit the scope ofthe present invention which shall be construed on the basis of thedescription of the claims.

To fully understand the object and effects of the present invention, itis strongly encouraged to sufficiently refer to disclosures of documentsalready made available.

The detailed description of the present invention provided hereinaboveincludes a process executed on a computer or computer network.

The above descriptions and expressions are provided to allow the oneskilled in the art to most efficiently understand the present invention.

A process performed in or by respective steps yielding one result orblocks with a predetermined processing function described in the presentspecification shall be understood as a process with noself-contradiction.

Further, the electrical or magnetic signal is transmitted/received andwritten in the respective steps or blocks.

It should be noted that such a signal is expressed in the form of bit,value, symbol, text, terms, number, or the like solely for the sake ofconvenience.

Although the present specification occasionally personifies theprocesses performed in the steps or blocks, these processes areessentially executed by various devices.

Further, the other structures necessary for the steps or blocks areobvious from the above descriptions.

While this invention has been described in conjunction with the specificembodiments outlined above, it is evident that many alternatives,modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in theart. Accordingly, the preferred embodiments of the invention as setforth above are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Variouschanges may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention as defined in the following claims.

1. A game device comprising: a first display on which a first symbol isarranged; a second display on which a second symbol is arranged; aninput device which receives a special bet operation from outside; and acontroller which is programmed to perform the steps of: (a1) allowingthe input device to receive the special bet operation; (a2) arranging afirst symbol on the first display; (a3) arranging a second symbol on thesecond display, if the input device has received the special betoperation; (a4) awarding a base payout according to the first symbol, ifno second symbol is arranged; and (a5) awarding a special payoutaccording to the first symbol and the second symbol, if the secondsymbol is arranged.
 2. A game device comprising: a first display onwhich a first symbol is arranged; a second display on which a secondsymbol, one type of which is a special symbol, is arranged; an inputdevice which receives a special bet operation from outside; and acontroller which is programmed to perform the steps of: (b1) allowingthe input device to receive the special bet operation; (b2) arranging afirst symbol on the first display; (b3) arranging a second symbol on thesecond display, if the input device has received the special betoperation; (b4) awarding a base payout according to the first symbol, ifno second symbol is arranged; (b5) if a second symbol which is differentfrom the special symbol is arranged, awarding a special payout accordingto the first symbol and the second symbol; and (b6) if a special symbolis arranged, awarding a bonus payout according to the first symbol andthe special symbol.
 3. A game device comprising: a first display onwhich a first symbol, one type of which is a first special symbol, isarranged; a second display on which a second symbol, one type of whichis a second special symbol, is arranged; an input device which receivesa special bet operation from outside; and a controller which isprogrammed to perform the steps of: (c1) allowing the input device toreceive the special bet operation; (c2) arranging a first symbol on thefirst display; (c3) arranging a second symbol on the second display, ifthe input device has received the special bet operation; (c4) if nosecond symbol is arranged and a first symbol which is different from thefirst special symbol is arranged, awarding a base payout according tothe first symbol; (c5) if a first special symbol is arranged no matterwhether a second symbol is arranged, awarding a first bonus payoutaccording to the first special symbol; (c6) if a second symbol which isdifferent from the second special symbol is arranged, awarding a bonuspayout according to the first symbol and the second symbol; and (c7) ifa second special symbol is arranged, awarding a second bonus payoutaccording to the first symbol and the second special symbol.
 4. Aplaying method of a game device in which a first symbol is arranged on afirst display and a second symbol is arranged on a second display, theplaying method comprising the steps of: (d1) allowing an input device toreceive a special bet operation; (d2) arranging a first symbol on thefirst display; (d3) if the input device has received the special betoperation, arranging a second symbol on the second display; (d4) if nosecond symbol is arranged, awarding a base payout according to the firstsymbol; and (d5) if a second symbol is arranged, awarding a specialpayout according to the first symbol and the second symbol.
 5. Ablackjack game device comprising: a first display on which two cardsymbols randomly selected from different types of card symbols aredisplayed; a second display on which a card symbol randomly selectedfrom different types of card symbols is displayed; an input device whichreceives a blackjack bet operation and a side bet operation fromoutside; and a controller which is programmed to perform the steps of:(e1) allowing the input device to accept the blackjack bet operation orthe side bet operation; (e2) after the input device receives theblackjack bet operation or the side bet operation, arranging cardsymbols on the first display; (e3) if the input device has received theside bet operation, arranging a card symbol on the second display; (e4)if the input device has received the blackjack bet operation, awarding abase payout according to a blackjack combination of the two card symbolsarranged on the first display; and (e5) if the input device has receivedthe side bet operation, awarding a special payout according to acombination of the two card symbols arranged on the first display andthe card symbol arranged on the second display.
 6. The blackjack gamedevice according to claim 5, wherein, the controller is programmed toperform the steps of: (e6) if the input device has received the side betoperation, randomly arranging a special symbol on the first display; and(e7) if the special symbol is arranged on the first display, executing aspecial game.